Key Things to Check Before Buying a Used Car

The used car market can be a superb place to purchase a vehicle as there is such great variety, and you could find the perfect car with a great deal.  Due to the sheer size of the market, it can also be challenging and intimidating place to shop and you need to know how to avoid bad deals. Here are the key things that you must check whenever looking over a second-hand automobile:

Vehicle Parts

It is vital that you give the automobile a thorough inspection and this will include much more than simply kicking the tyres. You need to check that all of the parts work as they should and that the car is in good condition. This will include checking the engine (leaks, oil level, head gasket condition and exhaust smoke), the gearbox and clutch (smooth gear changes and biting point) and wheels and tyres (tread depth and condition). You will then want to examine the bodywork and interior for damage and check that all of the electronics work. A lot of this can be done on the test drive which is a crucial aspect which will give you the chance to see if you enjoy driving the car.

Price

You will, of course, want to get a good deal so you need to check prices for the same model at other dealerships to ensure that you are not getting ripped off. Although it is a good idea to shop around when looking for used cars NI, you should always purchase from a reputable dealership and avoid buying from a private seller as this could open you up to a scam.

History Check

It is impossible to know a car’s history by looking at it and many second-hand vehicles have a hidden history which could include outstanding finance, recorded as stolen, etc. You can avoid purchasing a car with a hidden history by getting a vehicle history check carried out.

Documentation

Finally, you need to check the documentation which is as important as the car itself. This will help you to see the work that has previously been carried out, you can check the recorded mileage against what the odometer says and see the MOT history. The car must also come with the V5C registration document which you will need to tax the car. You should also check that the vehicle identification number (VIN) matches the one on the car and number plate.

These are the main checks that you will need to take when shopping in the used car market. It can be a difficult place to shop and particularly if you do not have much experience, but the above can act as a guide to help you to find the perfect car for your particular needs.

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